The Bay Breeze cocktail is a light, fruity vodka drink that’s super easy to mix and perfect for warm, sunny days (or pretending it’s summer when it’s not!). Made with cranberry and pineapple juice, it’s got that sweet-tart flavor and tropical vibe that just feels like vacation in a glass. Just what you want after a long day!
Also known as the Hawaiian Sea Breeze cocktail, this drink is part of the same cranberry-based cocktail family as the Cape Codder. But thanks to the pineapple juice, the Bay Breeze has a little more of that beachy, laid-back twist.
It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and just the right amount of boozy. This one really had its moment back in the '80s, but it’s still a favorite—and for good reason. You can whip it up in minutes, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
If you love drinks with cranberry juice, you should also give the Madras cocktail a try!
Ingredient Notes
The easy cocktail recipe falls into a category of mixed drinks called "duos" and "trios". This recipe uses just three simple ingredients - two types of fruit juice and one liquor.
- Vodka - Any plain, unflavored vodka will work for this recipe.
- Cranberry juice - It is best to use cranberry juice rather than a cranberry cocktail juice. Pure cranberry juice is full of cranberry flavor and is bitter, whereas a cocktail mix is combined with other juices.
- Pineapple juice - Again we recommend using 100% juice for making this cocktail so that it has the best pineapple flavor and isn't loaded with any extra sugar or other juices.
See recipe card below for ingredient list with measurements.
Garnish Suggestions
A Bay Breeze Cocktail should always be served over ice but the garnish is optional. Here are some of my favorites:
- Lemon or lime wedge
- Fresh or frozen cranberries
- A pineapple wedge
- Lemon or lime wheel
- Maraschino cherry
- Pineapple leaves
- Caramelized pineapple pieces
How to Make a Bay Breeze Cocktail
No cocktail shaker or fancy bar equipment is needed to make this easy tropical drink.
- STEP 1: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes or crushed ice.
- STEP 2: Gently pour in the vodka, pineapple juice and cranberry juice (in that order). If you want you can stir it.
- STEP 3: Add any desired garnishes and serve immediately.
Pitcher Variation
Bay Breeze cocktails are super easy to scale up, which makes them perfect for serving a crowd.
Just mix the vodka, pineapple juice, and cranberry juice in a large pitcher—adjust the amounts based on how many servings you need. Pop it in the refrigerator to chill until you’re ready to serve.
When it’s time to pour, just fill your glasses with ice, add your cocktail, and garnish however you like. So simple, and such a fun way to serve drinks at a party!
More vodka cocktails to try:
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Recipe
Bay Breeze Cocktail (Hawaiian Sea Breeze)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 ounce Vodka
- 3 ounce Cranberry Juice
- 2 ounce Pineapple Juice
- Ice Cubes
Instructions
- Fill a tall serving glass with ice cubes or crushed ice.Ice Cubes
- Add the vodka, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice. Stir together gently to combine.2 ounce Vodka, 3 ounce Cranberry Juice, 2 ounce Pineapple Juice
- Add any desired garnishes and serve immediately.
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